Grace Centered Politics

So this post was almost titled "Why I Love Chick-fil-A" (which oh man I do. I worked for them for 6 years and I still just love everything about them) buuuuuut then I read a facebook post about how a friend of mine was sick of hearing about all the political mumbo jumbo about chicken sandwhiches, gun control, and the election. And it kinda hit me in the gut.

Now don't get me wrong, I have very strong opinions on each of these things. I love politics and always have. When I am passionate about something (ahem most things) I tend to bring them up all the time.

But I think that the issues can be counter-productive to people hearing the gospel. It has been for me at least.

I'd bet that if you asked most of America what the main point of Christianity is you would hear answers like "Save the Poor" or "Vote pro-life" or even "Oppose Gay Marriage"

I've seen too many Christians focus on good issues and miss opportunities to share the good news.

The main point of Christianity is not to do good things (although that's a part) but rather the main point is to know and reveal the character of God to the world he has created. We were made to show off God's glory.

So why do we miss it? Why do we focus so much of the what and miss the Who?

Do the issues even matter with out understanding the grace offered to us by the cross?

I stand firmly on Biblical values, not because I think they are the most fun or because they offer me something special, but because of who wrote them.

I think most other Christians feel this way too. The issues matter, not because of the issues, but because of what Jesus thinks about them.

But somehow it all gets lost in translation. When we take a stand about something, doesn't it become about the issue again? We know how we got to step C without sharing steps A and B.

So fellow passionate Christians, let's continue to take a stand on important issues. But more importantly let's not let the issues we care so deeply about come before the one who cares so deeply about us.

Let's bring the gospel of grace and forgiveness back into hot button issues.

Lord, forgive us. We focus so much on doing good that we leave You out of the conversation. We know that every good and perfect thing is a gift straight from You. And we know that apart from you we can do nothing. Lord help us to abide in you as we talk about these issues. Help us have your grace on the forefront of our minds. Give us an eternal perspective to know that sharing about you grace is most important. Lord we desire to live in a nation that glorifies You with our government, help us discern what to fight for and what to let go. We long for your perfect nation to come Lord.

What do you think? Have you seen any great examples of grace centered politics?

Check out these awesome blogs where I linked up!
Thought Provoking Thursdays, Imperfect Prose, Life in Bloom, Grace Alone, Leaving a Legacy, Thoughtful Thursdays, Reflections of His Grace, Live Laugh Linky,